Zucchini is an incredibly versatile vegetable, and its mild, slightly sweet flavor lends itself to a variety of preparations.
Whether you’re looking for a light accompaniment to a hearty main course or a nutritious option to balance a lighter meal, zucchini has something for everyone.
In this guide, we’ll explore a range of delicious zucchini side dishes – there’s something for every palate and for any occasion.
Quick And Easy Dishes
Let’s start our list with some easy side dishes that take almost no time at all to create:
This quick dish features zucchini and corn kernels sautéed with garlic and red onion. Adding bacon to the dish makes it a lot more substantial, and you can flavor it with your choice of herbs, like basil or parsley.
It’s a summery, sweet-and-savory combo that pairs well with virtually any main dish – we think it’s great for barbecues.
Offering the familiar shape and texture of regular fries but with fewer calories and a unique flavor, zucchini fries are a hit with both kids and adults.
You can bake or air-fry them for a lighter touch, and they pair exceptionally well with a variety of dipping sauces.
This is a fast and straightforward dish that embodies the essence of summer produce.
Sautéing the zucchini and tomatoes in olive oil with a bit of garlic and herbs lets the natural flavors shine.
The vibrant colors also make for a visually appealing side dish that pairs well with a variety of main courses.
Low-Calorie Options
Zucchini is a low-calorie option, but if you’re on a diet, you may be mindful of how you cook this veg or what you serve it with – we’ve included some ideas below:
Using a vegetable peeler or mandoline, create thin ribbons of zucchini. Toss these with a light vinaigrette made of lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and fresh mint ( you could also use basil).
Add some feta, and you have a delicious side salad.
This salad is not only visually stunning but also extremely low in calories while still being flavorful.
Crowd Pleasers
Now, moving on to some real crowd-pleasing zucchini side dishes that will leave your guests wanting more:
While perhaps not the first thing that comes to mind when thinking of side dishes, zucchini bread can serve as a unique and comforting option.
This sweet, moist bread uses grated zucchini, which provides an intriguing texture and a mild, vegetal flavor that complements the sweetness of the bread.
It pairs exceptionally well with spicy or rich meat dishes – or you can serve it with soup.
Inspired by the rich, aromatic flavors of Moroccan cuisine, this dish features zucchini coins covered in parmesan, sautéed in olive oil, and flavored with garlic.
The parmesan and garlic blend impart a warm, earthy flavor to the zucchini, making it a perfect side for dishes like lamb tagine or grilled fish.
You can also add your favorite herbs to the mix for extra flavor.
This is a gourmet side dish perfect for impressing guests.
Zucchini is first grated and then mixed with eggs and milk or half-and-half, along with cheese, herbs like thyme and basil, and a dash of nutmeg.
The mixture is poured into ramekins and baked until set. The result is a creamy, luxurious flan that has a delicate zucchini flavor. It’s a sophisticated option that pairs well with a variety of upscale mains.
Zucchini proves to be a true culinary chameleon, fitting into casual weekday dinners, formal gatherings, and every meal in between.
With its wide range of preparations, it’s a vegetable you’ll never tire of.
Which recipe will you choose as your next side?
Hungry for more? How about some eggplant sides to whet your appetite?
Frequently Asked Questions
What does zucchini pair well with?
Zucchini is a versatile vegetable that pairs well with a variety of proteins, including chicken, beef, and fish.
It also complements other vegetables like tomatoes and bell peppers, and it can be flavored with a wide range of herbs and spices, such as basil, oregano, and garlic.
How do you cook zucchini without getting soggy?
To prevent zucchini from becoming soggy, you can salt it first to draw out moisture. After letting it sit for a few minutes, pat it dry with paper towels.
Cooking at high heat for a short period of time, whether grilling, roasting, or sautéing, also helps retain its texture.
Should zucchini be peeled before cooking?
Peeling zucchini is generally not necessary as the skin is tender and rich in nutrients. The skin also adds color and texture to dishes.
However, if you prefer, you can peel it for recipes that require a softer texture.
What is the best way to eat zucchini?
The best way to eat zucchini depends on personal preference. It can be eaten raw in salads or as zucchini noodles, grilled for a smoky flavor, baked into casseroles, or even incorporated into sweet dishes like zucchini bread. Each method offers a unique texture and flavor.
Why do you salt zucchini before cooking?
Salting zucchini before cooking helps to draw out excess moisture, resulting in a firmer texture when cooked.
This is especially useful for dishes where you want to avoid sogginess, such as fritters or sautés.
I'm Barbara Hunt, the founder of WomenChefs.org. Being a mom of two, I understand the challenges of meal planning and the monotony it can bring.
That's why I created WomenChefs.org, a platform dedicated to showcasing the skills and delicious dishes crafted by amazing women. My goal is to provide a space where women can find delectable recipes that tantalize their taste buds and ignite their senses.
I hope you'll join me in exploring WomenChefs.org and discovering your next favorite recipe. Let's embrace culinary diversity and try something new together!
